Is leisure battery install linked to static shocks getting out van?

[1Pearman]

As the title suggests I’ve been getting big static shocks every time I get out of the van and then go to open the kids door or tailgate. I’ve just finished a leisure battery and B2B install. Everything I’ve installed goes to the chassis earthing point under the passenger seat base.

I’ve always had these shocks from time to time in my last T5 but these ones have just started and are by far the most aggressive

 

[JOG]

As the title suggests I’ve been getting big static shocks every time I get out of the van and then go to open the kids door or tailgate. I’ve just finished a leisure battery and B2B install. Everything I’ve installed goes to the chassis earthing point under the passenger seat base.

I’ve always had these shocks from time to time in my last T5 but these ones have just started and are by far the most aggressive

Has Mrs @1Pearman recently bought a large life insurance policy for you?!!

 

[Loz]

In a word no.
More likely your seat trim or the steering wheel charging you up.

 

[1Pearman]

Yeah I thought it couldn’t be the leisure stuff. In the past it’s usually wearing a fleece or similar. I read weather could play a part too? Is there a way to ground the van when it’s stopped so I’m not scared to touch it

 

[Loz]

One of those trailing straps you used to see hanging down at the back of cars?

 

[IestynD]

Apt timing... yesterday in Newbury/Oxfordshire area was a nightmare for static shocks...

I was thinking about fitting a trailing strap as sometimes the kids (5 yrs old) would be on the verge of tears! I think it was a dry day yesterday after the snow had melted and perhaps that made it more static friendly!

 

[Howzat]

Footwear plays a big part too. Maybe try those anti-static straps which look so cool.

 

[CAB]

Cold dry air increases electrostatic charging. Not a lot you can do about it apart from changing what you wear.

Those straps only work in the wet, even then I think it's doubtful in terms of area of contact, they definitley don't make a decent earth connection in the dry. And when it's wet, you have big fat wet tyres to earth the van.

 

[Ali-G]

I’ve had a few belters over the last couple of weeks, never had any in the previous 11 months ownership.

 

[CAB]

I’ve had a few belters over the last couple of weeks, never had any in the previous 11 months ownership.

Yep, purely atmospheric. Freezing temperatures at night so very little moisture in the air; dry days when the air warms, leads to very low humidity. Very low RH means that the charges you generate when you move and separate materials can't dissipate and generate significant body voltage.

Pray for rain

 

[Insert Coin]

Back in the day when I installed arcade machines we often had issues with new carpet zapping the electronics.

I used to use a lorry load of 1ltr trigger sprays, I don't remember the brand but something like this should solve the issue -

Ambersil 31561 Neutralises Static Electricity 400Ml: Amazon.co.uk: DIY & Tools

 

[1Pearman]

Really interesting info. My 7 year olds seems to think it’s funny and is happy to act as our grounding device when we get out. Will have to try holding the door frame when I get out too and see if that neutralises it.

 

[CAB]

Either:
1. You are charged up, and then transmitting this to the metal of the van (which has a much higher capacitance), or
2. The van is charged up and isolated from the road, and is earthing through you to ground.

In any case, yes, may be worth touching the metalwork before / as you step out of the van, keep hold as you place your feet on the floor, see if it makes any difference?

 

[1Pearman]

Just been out in the van, and holding the door frame (anything metal on the van) as you climb out and put your feet on the ground gets rid of the static without a shock. Problem solved.

 

[CAB]

Science!

 

[CAB]

Well, Physics really.

 

[1Pearman]

Wish I’d have know that for the last 10 years!!

 

[CAB]

Either you are grounding yourself as you move out of the seat, and so eliminating any charge that you create by moving from your seat, or you are grounding the van through your feet when you step out.

There is normally no sharp shock through feet, the current is spread over the whole of your feet in contact with your sock.

Socks are a great conductor, almost instantly get a high level of moisture in them; we test and certify a lot of antistatic PPE but we don't do socks 'cos they don't need anything special!